CN101811082A - A shredding machine with LED sensor - Google Patents

Abstract

A shredder is disclosed having a feed port for receiving at least one item to be shredded through the feed port, and a shredding mechanism housed in a shredder housing. The shredding mechanism is actuated to shred at least one item fed therein. At least one light emitting diode acts as a sensor by emitting and detecting radiation when operated in forward biased and reverse biased directions. Light emitting diodes may be used to detect the presence of at least one item in the feed port or the amount of chopped particles in the container or bin. The LEDs communicate with the controller to operate the shredding mechanism. The controller also calibrates the intensity of the radiation to be at or within a predetermined amount above a minimum level in order to reduce wear and splicing conditions.

Description

Shredders with Light Emitting Diode (LED) Sensors

related application

This application is a continuation-in-part of, and claims priority from, US Patent Application No. 12/252,158, filed October 15, 2008, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

technical field

The present invention generally relates to a shredder having at least one light emitting diode (LED) as an emitter and detector to assist in determining the operation of a knife element for shredding an item.

Background technique

A common type of shredder has a shredding mechanism contained within the housing and mounted on top of the container. A shredding mechanism typically includes a cutting head assembly that includes a series of cutter elements that shred items fed into them, such as paper, CDs, DVDs, credit cards, etc., and discharge the shredded items downwards into the container. An example of such a shredder can be found, for example, in US Patent 7,040,559, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

When a user feeds items into the shredding mechanism, sensors may be provided to detect the presence of these items, thereby actuating the shredding mechanism to shred the items. One or more sensors may also be provided to detect whether the container is full of shredded items. Optical sensors are usually used since they have no moving parts. However, optical sensors used in shredders preferably have a wide range of electrical characteristics and/or sensitivities to detect a wide range of items and media (e.g., items of various colors, materials), and provide no use during the life of the sensor. Any false positive signal to actuate the shredding mechanism. For example, the drive signal for the sensor must provide a sensitive light intensity to detect paper and CDs and/or shredded items.

Typical examples of optical sensors include those having discrete elements for emitting and for detecting light or radiation, such as infrared (IR) beams. Such sensors require the beam to be interrupted (ie, disconnected) between the emitter and detector to sense a state. Alternatively, a reflective sensor (eg, one that detects reflected light or beams) may be used, which may use a simple assembly rather than discrete components. Regardless, improvements to the cost, assembly, and construction of sensors used in shredders would be beneficial.

Contents of the invention

One aspect of the present invention provides a shredder comprising a shredder housing having a throat for for receiving at least one item to be shredded through the feed opening. The shredding mechanism includes a motor and a cutter element and enables the at least one item to be shredded to be fed into the cutter element. The motor is operable to drive the cutter element in a chopping direction such that the cutter element chops the at least one item fed therein into particles. The shredder also includes at least one light emitting diode operable as a sensor. The at least one light emitting diode sensor is configured to function as an emitter when operated in a forward bias direction and configured to function as a detector when operated in a reverse bias direction. A controller is coupled to the sensor and the shredding mechanism and is configured to alternate the input to the light emitting diode between the forward bias direction and the reverse bias direction. The controller is also operable to control operation of the shredding mechanism based on the radiation detected by the sensor.

Another aspect of the invention includes a shredder comprising a shredder housing having an inlet for receiving At least one item to be shredded passes through the feed opening. The shredding mechanism includes a motor and a cutter element and enables the at least one item to be shredded to be fed into the cutter element. The motor is operable to drive the cutter element in a chopping direction such that the cutter element chops the at least one item fed therein into particles. The shredder also includes a container for receiving shredded particles. A series of light emitting diodes are provided in the shredder positioned to receive radiation reflected from the shredded particles accumulated in the container and to determine the intensity of the reflected radiation. The intensity corresponds to the amount of chopped particles packed in the container. Likewise, the series of light emitting diodes are configured to function as emitters when operated in a forward bias direction and configured to function as detectors when operated in a reverse bias direction. a controller coupled to the series of light emitting diodes and the chopping mechanism and configured to cause the input of the series of light emitting diodes to be between the forward bias direction and the reverse bias direction alternately. The controller is operable to control operation of the shredding mechanism based on detection by the sensor.

Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a method performed in a shredder comprising a shredder housing having an inlet and a shredding mechanism housed in the housing, the inlet The feed port is for receiving at least one item to be shredded through the feed port. The shredding mechanism includes a motor and a cutter element and enables the at least one item to be shredded to be fed into the cutter element. The motor is operable to drive the cutter element in a chopping direction such that the cutter element chops the at least one item fed therein into chopped particles. The shredder also includes at least one light emitting diode operable as a sensor, the at least one light emitting diode sensor being configured to act as a transmitter when operating in a forward bias direction and configured to act as a transmitter when operating in a reverse bias direction Acts as a detector when operating in a biased direction. A controller is coupled to the sensor and the shredding mechanism and is configured to alternate the input to the light emitting diode between the forward bias direction and the reverse bias direction. The controller is operable to control operation of the shredding mechanism based on the radiation detected by the sensor. The method includes: alternating the input to the light emitting diode between the forward bias direction and the reverse bias direction; detecting reflected radiation with the light emitting diode; and using the controller , controlling the operation of the shredding mechanism based on the radiation detected by the light emitting diodes.

Other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, drawings, and appended claims.

Description of drawings

Figure 1 is a top perspective view of a shredder apparatus including at least one sensing device constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of Fig. 1;

Figure 3 is a detailed perspective view of the underside of a shredder housing of a shredder apparatus including at least one sensing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4 is a detailed perspective view of the underside of a shredder housing of a shredder apparatus including one or more sensors according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 5a-5c show circuit diagrams representing the steps of emitting and detecting radiation using light emitting diodes as sensors according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of the interaction between the controller and other parts of a shredder according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method for calibrating a sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 8 shows a flow diagram illustrating a method for determining the need to perform calibration on an actuation sensor, and

Figure 9 shows a flow diagram illustrating a method for determining the need to perform calibration of a bin full or waste level sensor.

Detailed ways

The following embodiments are described with reference to the drawings and are by no means limited in their scope.

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a shredder apparatus 10 constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The shredder 10 is designed to destroy or shred items such as paper, paper products, CDs, DVDs, credit cards, and other objects. In one embodiment, the shredder 10 may include wheels (not shown) to assist in moving the shredder 10 . The shredder 10 includes a shredder housing 12 positioned on top of, for example, a container 18 .

The shredder housing 12 includes at least one input opening 14 on an upper side 24 (or upper wall or top side or top wall) of the housing 12 for receiving material to be shredded. The input opening 14 extends in the transverse direction and is often also referred to as feed opening. The input opening or feed opening 14 may extend generally parallel to and above the shredding mechanism 20 (described below). The input opening or feed opening 14 can be relatively narrow to prevent overly thick items, such as large stacks of documents, from being fed therein. However, feed port 14 may have any configuration. In one embodiment, an additional or second input opening (not shown) may be provided in the shredder housing 12 . For example, an input opening 14 may be provided to receive paper, paper products and other items, while a second input opening (not shown) may be provided to receive objects such as CDs and DVDs. Shredder housing 12 also includes an output opening 16 on an underside 26 (or bottom side or bottom wall or underside or box side), such as shown in FIG. 2 . In one embodiment, the shredder housing 12 may include a bottom receptacle 38 with an underside 26 to receive the shredder mechanism 20 therein. The bottom bracket 38 is secured to the upper side 24 or the inner face of the top wall, such as by fasteners. The receptacle 38 has in its bottom side 26 or bottom wall an outlet opening 16 through which the chopped particles are discharged.

In general, shredder 10 may have any suitable configuration or configuration, and the illustrated embodiments provided herein are not intended to be limiting in any way. Additionally, the terms "shredder" or "shredder device", which are used interchangeably throughout this specification, are not intended to be limited to devices that literally "shred" documents and items, but are instead intended to cover Items illegible and/or useless means to destroy any means of these documents and items.

As mentioned, the shredder 10 also includes a shredding mechanism 20 (generally shown in FIG. 2 ) within the shredder housing 12 . As items are inserted into the at least one input opening or feed port 14 , they are directed towards and into the shredding mechanism 20 . "Shredding mechanism" is a general structural term used to denote a device that destroys an item using at least one cutter element. Destruction can be done in any particular way. The shredding mechanism 20 includes a drive system 32 (shown generally in FIG. 2) having at least one motor 34, such as an electric motor, and a plurality of cutter elements 21 (see FIG. 3). The cutter element 21 is mounted on a pair of parallel mounting shafts (not shown). The motor 34 is electrically operated to rotatably drive the first and second rotatable shafts of the shredding mechanism 20 and their corresponding cutter elements 21 through a conventional transmission 36 so that the cutter elements 21 shred or destroy the The material or article is then deposited into the opening 15 of the container 18 via the output opening 16 . The shredding mechanism 20 may also include a subframe 31 for mounting, for example, shafts, motors and transmissions into the housing 12 . The drive system may have any number of motors and may include one or more transmissions. Furthermore, the plurality of cutter elements 21 may be mounted on the first and second rotatable shafts in any suitable manner. For example, in one embodiment, the cutter elements 21 rotate in a staggered relationship to shred paper and other items fed therein. In one embodiment, the cutter elements 21 may be arranged in a stacked relationship. The operation and construction of such shredding mechanisms 20 are well known and need not be discussed in detail here. As such, at least one input opening or feed port 14 is configured to receive material inserted thereinto feed the material through the shredding mechanism 20 and to deposit or discharge the shredded material through the output opening 16 .

Shredder housing 12 is configured to be placed over or on container 18 . As shown in FIG. 2, the shredder housing 12 may include a removable paper shredding mechanism. That is, in one embodiment, the shredder housing 12 may be removed relative to the container 18 to facilitate or assist in emptying the container 18 of shredded material. In one embodiment, the shredder housing 12 includes a lip 22 or other structural arrangement corresponding in size and shape to the top edge 19 of the container 18 . The container 18 receives in its opening 15 paper or articles shredded by the shredder 10 . More particularly, after the material is inserted into the input opening 14 to be shredded by the cutter element 21 , the shredded material or item is deposited from the output opening 16 on the underside 26 of the shredder housing 12 to the container 18 in the opening 15 of the Container 18 may be, for example, a waste bin.

In one embodiment, the container 18 may be located in a frame below the shredder housing 12 . For example, the frame may be used to support the shredder housing 12 and include space to receive the container so that the container 18 may be removed therefrom. For example, in one embodiment, the container 18 may be configured to slide relative to the frame like a drawer, be hingedly mounted to the frame, or include a pedal or pedal arrangement to assist in pulling or removing the container from the frame. The container 18 may include an opening, handle, or notch 17 so that the user can grasp the case (or grasp the area near the notch 17), thus providing an easy grip area for the user to remove the container 18 from the shredder housing 12 separates, whereby the shredded material can be accessed. The container 18 may be substantially or completely removed out of operative condition with the shredder housing 12 in order to empty the shredded material, such as chips or strips (ie, waste or scrap) located therein. In one embodiment, to allow for accumulation of items therein, container or case 18 may include one or more access openings (not shown).

Generally, the terms "container," "waste bin," and "bin" are defined as means for receiving shredded material discharged from the output opening 16 of the shredding mechanism 20, and such terms are used interchangeably throughout the specification. ground use. However, such terms should not be limiting. Container 18 may have any suitable construction or configuration.

Typically, the power supply to the shredder 10 will be a standard power cord 44 having a plug 48 on its end that plugs into a standard AC power outlet. Also, a control panel may be provided for use with the shredder 10 . In general, the use of control panels is known in the art. As shown in FIG. 1 , a power switch 100 or switches may be provided to control the operation of the shredder 10 . The power switch 100 may be provided, for example, on the upper side 24 of the shredder housing 12 , or anywhere else on the shredder 10 . The upper side 24 may have a switch recess 28 with an opening therethrough. The on/off switch 100 includes a switch module (not shown) and a manually engageable portion 30 mounted to the housing 12 below the recess 28 by fastening means, the manually engageable portion 30 being in the recess 28. Lateral movement in port 28. The switch module has a movable element (not shown) connected to the manually engageable portion 30 to move the switch module between its states. Movement of the manually engageable portion of switch 100 moves the switch module between states. In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the switch module connects the motor 34 to a power source. This connection may be direct or indirect, such as via controller 56 (shown in FIG. 6 ). The term "controller" is used to define a device or microcontroller having a central processing unit (CPU) and input/output devices for monitoring parameters from devices operatively coupled to the controller. The input/output devices also allow the CPU to communicate with and control devices operatively coupled to the controller, such as sensors 50 or motor 34, for example. As is generally known in the art, the controller may optionally include any number of storage media, such as memory or storage, for monitoring or controlling sensors coupled to the controller.

Controller 56 is also in communication with motor 34 of shredding mechanism 20 (schematically shown in FIG. 6 ). When the switch 100 is moved to the on position, the controller 56 may send an electrical signal to the driver of the motor 34, so that it rotates the cutter element 21 of the shredding mechanism 20 in the shredding direction, thereby causing the paper fed into the feed port 14 to to be chopped. Additionally or alternatively, when the switch 100 is in the on position, the switch 100 can be set to an idle or ready position, which communicates with the control panel. The idle or ready position may correspond, for example, to selectively actuating the shredder mechanism 20 . As will be described further below, the controller 56 may be selectively enabled based on detection of the presence or insertion of at least one item (eg, paper) in the feed opening 14 by a sensor 50, such as an actuation sensor. Operation of Shredding Mechanism 20 . Also, in one embodiment, the controller 56 may selectively activate the shredding mechanism 20 based on the detection of accumulated shredded particles in the container or bin 18 by a sensor 72, such as a waste level or bin full sensor. operate. Switch 100 can also be moved to the off position, which causes controller 56 to stop operation of motor 34 .

The switch module contains suitable contacts for signaling the position of the manually engageable portion of the switch. Alternatively, the switch 100 may also have a reverse position that signals the controller 56 to operate the motor 34 in a reverse manner. This is achieved by using a reversible motor and applying a current of opposite polarity relative to the on position. For example, the ability to operate the motor 34 in reverse is desirable in order to move the cutter element 21 in the opposite direction to clear a jam. To provide each of the above positions, the switch 100 may be a slide switch, a rotary switch, or a rocker switch. Also, the switch 100 may be a push switch type that is simply depressed to cycle the controller 56 through a plurality of states. Additionally, the controller 56 may determine (e.g., via one or more sensors 50) that no items have been cleared from the feed port 14, and thus operate the motor 34 in the opposite direction (e.g., for a short period of time) to remove from the shredder 10. Any residual items (or parts thereof) are removed from the feed port 14.

In general, the construction and operation of the switch 100 and controller 56 used to control the motor are well known and any construction for them may be used. For example, touch screen switches, membrane switches, or toggle switches are other examples of switches that may be used. Also, the switch does not have to have different positions corresponding to on/off/idle/reverse, these states can be states selected in the controller by operating the switch. Any state may also be represented by light as a signal, signaled on a display screen, or otherwise.

As mentioned, the shredder 10 may have one or more actuation sensors 50 and/or one or more waste level or bin full sensors 72 . The actuation sensor 50 emits and detects radiation and is operable to detect the presence or insertion of at least one item based on a change in the radiation detected by the sensor. In some cases, such detected changes may be caused by the insertion of an article into the feed opening. As will be described further, the one or more actuation sensors 50 may be single-body dual function devices for emitting and detecting radiation, such as light emitting diodes or LEDs. Alternatively, the actuation sensor comprises a plurality of LEDs. Radiation may include, but is not limited to, visible light, infrared (IR) light, and ultraviolet light, or any combination thereof.

As shown in FIG. 1 , one or more actuation sensors 50 may be located in the feedwell 14 . For example, the sensor 50 may be located below the upper wall 24 and above the knife element 21 of the shredding mechanism 20 . However, the location of the sensor 50 should not be limited. The sensor 50 may be located at any number of locations relative to the shredder housing 12 or the shredding mechanism 20 . For example, one or more actuation sensors 50a and/or 50b for detecting the presence of at least one item to be shredded may be provided at alternative locations in, about, near, or adjacent to the feed opening 14 . In some embodiments, the actuation sensor 50a may be located near the right or left side of the feed opening 14, for example. In some embodiments, the actuation sensor 50b may be disposed on or near the end of the feed port 14 . Additionally, multiple sensors (eg, in the center, below the inlet, at the sides, at the end) may be disposed in, around, near, or adjacent to the feedwell 14 and are contemplated. Additionally, the actuation sensor 50 may be disposed in the shredding mechanism 20 at a location above the knife element 21 . In some instances, the elements may also be mounted facing each other, much like existing transmitter and receiver sensors. For example, if desired, LEDs could be mounted in such a way to determine whether there is a clear change of state (eg, blocked/unblocked) when an item or paper is inserted into the feed opening 14 .

The actuation sensor 50 is operatively connected to the shredding mechanism 20 . For example, when the sensor 50 senses the presence of an item in the feed opening 14, the shredding mechanism 20 is actuated to shred the item. However, when the sensor 50 determines that no items are present in the feed opening, the shredding mechanism 20 becomes inoperable. In particular, the actuation sensor 50 will communicate with the controller 56 to disable power to the shredder motor 34 (e.g., by opening a switch so that power cannot be delivered) when the absence of an item is detected in the feed opening 14. to the motor 34).

For example, assuming switch 100 is in, for example, the on (or idle) position, when a paper or article is inserted into feed opening 14, controller 56 activates the shredding mechanism by actuating motor 34 to drive knife element 21 in the shredding direction. 20 operations. The use of actuation sensor 50 is desirable because it allows the user to make shredder 10 ready by moving switch 100 to its on position, but not until sensor 50 detects the presence of one or more items in feed port 14. Or insert, controller 56 just operates shredding mechanism 20 and starts shredding. Once at least one item has passed the actuation sensor 50 into the shredding mechanism 20, the controller 56 will stop the movement or rotation of the cutter element 21 of the shredding mechanism 20, as this corresponds to the item having been completely fed in and cut. broken. Typically, a slight time delay, such as 3-5 seconds, is used before stopping the shredding mechanism 20 to ensure that items have been completely shredded by the knife elements 21 and ejected from the shredding mechanism 20 . The use of this actuation sensor 50 is beneficial because it allows the user to perform multiple shredding tasks without causing the shredding mechanism 20 to operate and generate noise between tasks. It also reduces wear on the shredder mechanism 20, since it only operates when sheets are being fed into it, and does not operate continuously. Further description of how the LEDs of the actuation sensor 50 determine the presence of an item will be provided with reference to Figures 5a-5c.

In some embodiments, the shredder 10 may include one or more waste level or bin full sensing devices 72 , such as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 . Waste level sensor 72 also includes a single body device for emitting and detecting radiation. Waste level sensor 72 includes one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). Radiation emitted by sensor 72 may include light in the visible spectrum, infrared radiation, and/or ultraviolet radiation. Shredded particles expelled by the shredding mechanism 20 and accumulating in the container or bin 18 will be detected by the sensing device 72 . The LED sensor 72 may be located at various locations in the shredder 10 . For example, in some embodiments, shredder 10 may include one or more sensing devices 72, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 . The LED sensing device 72 is positioned to emit and detect radiation for the container or case 18 . In some embodiments, multiple sensors 72 or series of LEDs may be arranged in spaced apart relationship. In general, any number of LED sensing devices 72 may be provided, and may be mounted in a variety of ways, and thus should not be limiting.

More particularly, one or more waste level/bin full LED sensing devices 72 may be provided on the bottom wall or underside 26 of the shredder housing 12 . In certain embodiments, the sensing device 72 may be disposed near or adjacent to the output opening 16 or the feed opening 14 , as depicted in FIG. 3 . In certain embodiments, the one or more sensors 72 mounted to the underside 26 of the housing 12 are flush with the bottom wall of the underside 26 . In certain embodiments, one or more sensors 72a are disposed on a structure 78 extending downwardly from the bottom wall or underside 26, as shown in FIG. In some cases, for example, as shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of LED sensors 72 are arranged in an array or series, such as in horizontal rows—as represented by 72b, or in a series of rows or some shape Setting - as indicated at 72c.

When multiple sensors 72 are provided, these elements may be mounted in relatively close proximity, adjacent to each other. In some instances, the proximity may depend on the distance to be detected (eg, the distance from the sensor to the bottom of the container 18) and/or the characteristics of the LED itself (eg, viewing angle, light intensity, etc.). When LED sensor 72 is mounted in this manner, these elements are able to work together (eg, see radiation or light from other LEDs). In some instances, these elements may also be mounted facing each other, much like existing transmitter and receiver sensors. For example, if desired, LEDs could be mounted in such a way to determine if there is a clear change of state (eg, blocked/unblocked).

Alternatively, although not shown, sensor 72 may be mounted on one or more side walls of vessel 18 or in any other manner to emit radiation into vessel 18 . In some examples, sensing device 72 may be disposed on one or more side walls of container 18 , such as near lip 19 . Accordingly, the location or mounting of the sensing device 72 should not be limiting such that this configuration enables the sensor 72 to sense shredded particles entering or accumulating in the waste opening of the bin 18 .

The sensing device 72, regardless of its location, is used to determine whether the bin or container 18 is accumulating or full of shredded particles. A waste level or bin full sensor 72 is also operatively connected to the shredder mechanism 20 . For example, when a user shreds an item, shredded particles are expelled by shredding mechanism 20 through opening 16 (eg, into container 18 ). As the shredded particles accumulate, the sensing device 72 can detect the accumulation or level of shredded particles in the container 18, thereby alerting the user, or alternatively, detect that the container 18 is full, and communicate with the controller 56 to stop the shredding The mechanism 20 operates until the container 18 is at least partially empty. A further description of how the LEDs of the waste level or bin full sensing device 72 determine the accumulation of shredded particles will be given with reference to Figures 5a-5c.

For example, assuming that the switch 100 is in the on (or idle) position, the controller 56, depending on how full the container 18 is (e.g., using some calculation method) or how much accumulated particles is detected (e.g., using the height of the pile), either by actuating or deactivating the The operation of the shredding mechanism 20 is controlled by the motor 34 driving the cutter element 21 . Use of the waste level/bin full sensor 72 is desirable because the controller 56 will not operate the shredding mechanism 20 when the sensor 72 detects an accumulation of shredded particles that nearly or substantially fills the bin 18 . This is beneficial as it also reduces wear on the shredder mechanism 20 and helps prevent possible clogging in the shredder mechanism or output opening 16 since it only operates when the bin is not full of accumulated particles.

The actuation sensor 50 and waste level sensor 72 described above in the shredder 10 are a single, dual function device. As single, dual-function devices, they are capable of both emitting and detecting radiation. For example, sensors 50 and 72 are LED sensors. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) are examples of sources that can be used to emit light and/or as emitters and detectors. In general, an LED or monolithic device, due to its bipolar nature, can be used as a sensing device.

2003复制的。电路80连接到例如诸如控制器56之类的微控制器。控制器56可以响应于LED探测到的信号电平而采取适当的动作，或者可以启用/禁用到LED元件的电力输送。电路80可以包括串联连接的电压源Vcc、发光二极管82、电阻器84、及电路地。然而，电阻器84是可选的，并且不必提供。而且，尽管示出单个二极管，但是可以设置一个或多个二极管，诸如LED阵列或系列，以帮助提供一致性并增大感测面积。如所示的那样配置电路80的使用，允许单个元件(LED 82)作为双用途装置。LED的引脚或引线——也称作阳极和阴极——连接到微控制器的引脚上。5a-5c show a circuit diagram 80 showing the steps of using a light emitting diode (LED) as sensor 50 or 72 to emit and detect radiation. The circuit diagrams of Figures 5a-5c are taken from the publication "Very Low-Cost Sensing and Communication Using Bidirectional LEDs", by Dietz et al. for Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratories,

Reproduced in 2003. Circuitry 80 is connected to, for example, a microcontroller such as controller 56 . The controller 56 may take appropriate action in response to the signal levels detected by the LEDs, or may enable/disable power delivery to the LED elements. Circuit 80 may include a voltage source Vcc, LED 82, resistor 84, and circuit ground connected in series. However, resistor 84 is optional and need not be provided. Also, although a single diode is shown, one or more diodes may be provided, such as an array or series of LEDs, to help provide uniformity and increase sensing area. Configuring the use of circuit 80 as shown allows a single component (LED 82) to function as a dual purpose device. The LED's pins or leads -- also known as the anode and cathode -- connect to pins on the microcontroller.

The general working principle of circuit 80 is readily understood by those skilled in the art. In order to take advantage of the photosensitive and bipolar properties provided by one or more LEDs (visible or IR) so that one or more LEDs can be used as emitters and detectors, i.e. a single dual function device 50 and/or 72, the LED It is first forward biased to turn on the LED, ie emit light and act as an emitter, as shown in Figure 5a. After a predetermined amount of time, the level of the microcontroller's pin is reversed. The predetermined amount of time for the pins to be reversed can include any amount of time and should not be limiting. Thus, the LED is reverse biased, as shown in Figure 5b. This enables LEDs to act as light sensors or detectors. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the LED accumulates charge during this phase and acts as a photosensitive capacitor. That is, the LED acts as a capacitive sensor because it detects the presence of objects (eg, items, documents, shredded particles, and others) without physical contact. Thus, when an item or shredded particle moves near or close to the LED sensor 50 or 72, the capacitance increases. This increase in capacitance may cause the LED to indicate (and thereby communicate with the controller 56 ) the presence of items in the feed port 14 or the accumulation of shredded particles in the bin 18 .

After another predetermined amount of time, the cathode side of the LED becomes the input, as shown in Figure 5c. Again, this amount of time should not be limiting. The rate of discharge through the RC network (ie, LED) is directly proportional to the amount of light the sensor is exposed to. An LED responds to light of a similar frequency to the light it emits when forward biased.

Thus, the LED sensing device 72 described herein is designed to detect changes in light intensity. Where the LEDs are part of an array or series, the LEDs may detect changes in light intensity based on sensing reflected radiation emitted from other LED devices, such as LED devices in their vicinity. However, LEDs can serve several functions if they are not arranged in an array or series. In some cases, a single LED can determine the amount of ambient light such that the detected intensity change determined by the LED can be correlated to the intensity change at which an object (eg, a chopped particle) blocks ambient light from it. In general, the closer the object is to the LED, the less ambient light the LED will detect. In this case, a single LED can act as a user pointing device when emitting radiation. Referring to FIG. 1 , for example, the actuation sensor 50 may be a single LED device for indicating to the user where to insert the item. A single LED may also be arranged to emit light when the shredder is available or ready for use, as a guide for added visibility, or to emit light when the shredder is operating. Thus, the LED device emits light for user attention and as a function indicator.

For example, an LED can be used as a dual function feed inlet sensor that acts both as a detector for detecting items and as a user indicator. That is, the sensor is mounted to the feed opening so at least a portion of it is visible outside the shredder (ie by a user looking at it). Alternating inputs to the light emitting diodes cause the diodes to emit radiation in a forward biased direction and act as a user indicator, indicating for example that the shredder is switched on and ready for use. The diode can also act as a detector in a reverse biased orientation, which detects insertion of at least one item based on a change in ambient light. In some embodiments, the rate at which the diode alternates between forward biased and reverse biased directions may be high enough (or fast) that the human eye cannot sense the change between emission and detection. In some embodiments, the diode can blink. Flickering can occur because the diode input is alternated between forward and reverse biased, providing the flickering effect. In either case, the LED alternates between bipolar states at a predetermined rate. Also, it should be noted that the indicating function of the LEDs should not be limiting.

In some cases, a single LED is provided as a light detector, thereby detecting the absence of ambient light.

It should be noted that although in some cases some residual charge may be left over from the charge/discharge cycle (i.e. forward bias and reverse bias provided in Figures 5a-5c) - this can vary and depends on The amount of radiation detected, but the residual charge will not cause large changes in the electrical characteristics of the LED.

By manipulating the LEDs so that they act as capacitive sensors, one can use the LEDs to detect the intensity of radiation corresponding to (a) the presence of an item in the feed port 14, or (b) the accumulation of chopped material in the bin 18 quantity. It is important to note the manner in which the sensing devices 50 and 72 are used to determine the presence of an item or that the box is full or substantially full. The sensors 50, 72 may use any kind of circuitry, software, logic, computer-readable media, or combinations thereof to determine such modes of operation. For example, in the case of LED actuated sensor 50, circuitry and/or logic may be used to indicate that a change in intensity of emitted light (ie, a change in capacitance) is proportional to the presence of an item, document, or paper. That is, if an increase in intensity or capacitance is determined, then the presence of an item in the feed port 14 is detected. Alternatively, if the intensity or capacitance decreases, it is determined that no item is present in the feed port 14 .

In the case of an LED waste level or bin full sensor 72 (which may include one or more LEDs), circuitry and/or logic may be used to indicate that changes in the intensity of emitted light (i.e., changes in capacitance) may be related to The amount of chopped material is proportional. That is, if it is determined that the capacitance in the LED decreases or increases, then a decrease or increase in the amount of shredded material in the bin 18 is detected, respectively. In particular, an increase in the LED capacitance (ie, radiation intensity) detected by the sensing device 72 corresponds to an increase in the amount of shredded material accumulated in the bin. Alternatively, as the distance between the accumulated chopped particles and the LED sensor 72 decreases, the capacitance between them also decreases. This reduction in capacitance results in a reduced signal level in the sensor/LED.

Advantages of using LED sensing devices 50 and/or 72 include reduced cost of the sensors. Using a single device such as an LED is less costly than other combinations such as an IR/PT combination or other known devices. Additionally, the LED sensing arrangement simplifies the manufacture of the shredder 10 and/or the shredder housing 12 . For example, where one or more LED actuation sensors 50 are fitted in the shredder 10, wiring arrangements in the shredder housing 12 are simplified because the fit is limited to one side of the feed opening 14 (e.g., rather than the need to manipulate and assemble wires on both sides as would be the case when separate emitters and detectors were provided). Furthermore, the use of LED sensing devices improves the overall machine quality. Also, the LED sensing device looks like a general LED indicator, thus providing a simple design.

The LED actuated sensor 50 may also provide advantages, for example, in its sensitivity for detecting paper or other items that may be inserted into the feed opening. In some cases, the output of sensor 50 may be interpreted (eg, using software) as an analog signal or as a pulse width modulated (PWM) digital signal. When using a PWM digital signal, the output is determined based on the detected light intensity, allowing the sensitivity of the sensor 50 to be adjusted if necessary. This is advantageous because existing auto-start signals are typically digital, making it more difficult to adjust the sensitivity of the element. Using an LED as the actuation sensor 50 allows for adjustment of the sensitivity.

The use of an LED sensor, such as the actuation sensor 50 or the case full sensing device 72, is preferably capable of consistently detecting a wide range of items and media as well as detecting individual sheets or shredded particles over the life of the sensor 50 or 72. present without providing any false positive signal (eg, from controller 56 to motor 34 of shredding mechanism 20). In some embodiments, radiation emissions from the actuation sensor 50 and/or the case fullness sensing device 72 provide a certain level of light intensity (or brightness). However, due to aging, misalignment, changes in tolerances, and/or different sensor grades, the intensity or brightness of the light beam or radiation emitted from the sensor varies. For example, the strength of the sensor may decrease due to aging and the buildup of dirt or residue on and around the element. A decrease in intensity indicates that the performance of the sensor is degrading. A false positive signal may be sent from the controller 56 as the intensity sensed by the sensor decreases, thereby creating a "run-on" state for the shredder 10 . It is also frustrating for the user that the shredding mechanism may not operate (or it may operate when the bin is full) when there is a false positive signal that the sensor detects that the container is full of shredded particles.

To compensate for the characteristics, sensitivity, and other characteristics required to actuate sensor 50 or case fullness sensing device 72, the intensity of radiation emitted by sensor 50 or 72 may be adjusted and modified to enable the sensor to detect the aforementioned events. For example, using LEDs for the sensing devices 50 and/or 72 improves the quality of the machine or device because it allows for possible self-calibration (eg by adjusting the intensity of the radiation).

Each LED sensor provided in the shredder 10 can be calibrated to define its zero position. The "zero position" of the sensing device can then be defined as when the shredder 10 is powered on and no motion is detected (e.g., no items are present in the feed port 14, or no shredded particles are present in the bin 18 (e.g., no The position that the sensor assumes when it detects the accumulation of chopped particles)). For example, shredded particles expelled by the shredding mechanism 20 and into the bin 18 will increase the capacitance of the LED sensing device 72 . Thus, in order to set the LED sensors to their respective zero positions, a calibration or recalibration may be performed to determine these positions.

For example, FIG. 7 illustrates a method 60 or cycle for operating a shredder having a sensor 50 and/or sensing device 72 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. After the shredder is powered on as indicated at 62 , the intensity of the radiation from sensor 50 or 72 is calibrated as indicated at 64 . Typical machine operations (eg, shredding) may then be performed on the at least one item inserted into the feed opening 14 to be shredded, as shown at 66 . After operation of the shredding mechanism 20 , the radiation intensity may be recalibrated, as shown at 68 .

To calibrate and/or recalibrate the radiation intensity of sensors 50 and/or 72 , controller 56 may provide instructions or signals to sensors 50 and/or 72 . For example, controller 56 may receive a signal to stop operation of motor 34 and then immediately perform an automatic calibration of sensors 50 and/or 72 . In this case, an "automatic" calibration, or automatically performed method, refers to calibrating the radiation intensity after sensor detection (for example, detection of paper or shredded particles). In one embodiment, the intensity of the radiation emitted by the sensor is adjusted to a level detectable by the detector when there are no items or shredded particles present to alter the radiation detected by the sensor, or when there is no accumulation of shredded particles in the bin 18. A predetermined amount above the minimum level, or adjusted to within that predetermined amount.

In the case of an actuation sensor such as the LED sensor 50, a preferably set intensity level may generally be defined as a threshold detection point at which the sensor is able to determine the Insertion of one or more items in spout 14 causes an increase in capacitance while still being sensitive to detect changes in radiation (eg, changes in radiation caused by one or more sheets of paper). In the case of a bin full sensing device such as the LED sensing device 72, the preferred set intensity level may generally be defined as the point at which the sensor detects an increase in capacitance for the shredding mechanism to discharge accumulated shredded particles. For example, in some cases, a preferred set intensity level may generally be defined as the point at which the sensor detects a minimum capacitance as a result of radiation being reflected by accumulated chopped particles in the box, or by the box itself. In some cases, the preferred set intensity level for either sensing device may generally be defined as a point determined by controller 56 using rules, logic, computer readable media, and/or software. Thus, the controller 56 is able to modify the intensity of the emitted radiation or light taking into account, inter alia, the current light output, the desired light output, and changes in light output.

In one embodiment, the controller 56 may adjust the radiation intensity by adjusting the LED sensing devices 50, 72 so that they are calibrated to a point at or within a predetermined amount of the minimum threshold detection level. LEDs may be calibrated or modulated, for example by pulse width modulation (PWM), to determine a minimum radiant intensity level. Accordingly, controller 56 may be used to help provide the desired intensity level.

The cycle or method of FIG. 7 allows for compensation for component aging, slight misalignment, variations in component tolerances, and different component grades so that such features become less critical for the sensor 50 or sensing device 72 emitting and detecting beams. relevant. Also, calibrating sensing devices 50 and/or 72 helps to substantially eliminate the possible problem of drive signal overpower to the point where sensor 50 does not communicate with controller 56 to actuate shredder mechanism 20 when desired. For example, the sensor 50 may communicate with the controller 56 to actuate the shredder mechanism 20 when a single item (e.g., a sheet of paper) is inserted into the feed opening, or alternatively, the sensing device 72 will communicate with the controller 56 to The shredding mechanism 20 is stopped when it is detected that the container 18 or bin is full of accumulated shredded particles.

A cycle or method of calibrating sensors 50 and/or 72, such as the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, may be repeated at any time. For example, in some embodiments, the radiation intensity of the sensors 50, 72 may be calibrated immediately or automatically after the shredder is powered on. In some embodiments, calibration may follow a predetermined amount of inactivity of shredding mechanism 20, during a sleep mode (e.g., when shredder 10 limits the amount of power sent to its elements), immediately after shredding Performed after an action, or before, during, or after another action.

FIG. 8 shows an example of a flowchart illustrating a method 90 of determining the need to perform calibration on the actuation sensor 50 . After power is applied at 92, normal machine operation can be performed, as shown at 94. At 96, the machine or shredder enters a sleep mode. At 98, the actuation sensor 50 is calibrated to determine a threshold detection point or level. Then, at 100, the calibration data is analyzed to determine if it is within the expected range. If the calibration data is within the desired range, ie "YES", the actuation sensor 50 is calibrated and set to a minimum threshold detection level, as indicated at 102 , and normal machine operation may continue, as indicated at 94 . If the calibration data is not within the desired range, ie "No", then the determined probe points/levels and data at 98 are discarded at 104, and normal machine operation can continue, as indicated at 94, until further time for possible calibration. An event is identified.

FIG. 9 shows a flowchart illustrating a method 106 of determining the need to perform calibration of, for example, bin full or waste level sensors 72 . After the shredder is energized at 108, normal machine operation may be performed, as indicated at 110. At 112, the machine or shredder determines whether the door to the container is opened (or other similar action such as disengaging or stopping motor operation). If the door has not been opened (or no other similar motion detected), ie "NO", normal machine operation continues at 110 . If it is determined that the door is open (or other similar action has occurred), ie "Yes", then method 106 waits until it is determined that the door is closed, as shown at 114 (or performs some other action that satisfies the door opening or other similar action) . At 116, it is determined whether the intensity reading of the box full sensor 72 is near a zero position or value. If the position is close to the zero position, yes (and it is likely that no particles are present in the box or container), then a calibration is performed and the radiation intensity is set to the new zero position, as shown at 118 . Alternatively, if the reading is not near the zero position, ie "No" (and there is likely to be particles present in the bin or container), then normal machine operation of the shredder continues, as shown at 110 .

Additionally, it is contemplated that the controller 56 may include in memory program code of machine or processor-executable instructions that, when executed, instruct the controller to operate the shredder 10 and to calibrate or recalibrate actuation as appropriate. Drive signal for sensor 50 or case fullness sensing device 72 .

In some embodiments, if an external event requiring an action occurs, the calibration loop or method may be interrupted and the required action for the external event may be performed. For example, shredder 10 (and portions thereof, such as additional sensors and controller 56) may detect a user's hand/finger near feed opening 14, detect input on a user interface or display screen, detect Paper thickness, or other events, and thus override the calibration of the sensors 50, 72 until the next opportunity.

In some instances, the controller 56 may also determine if the sensor's intensity is less (or greater) than its previous zero position and calibration is required. If the controller 56 determines that the sensor signal differs from the previously noted zero position, the controller 56 recalibrates the sensor. In general, the sensor may be calibrated or re-calibrated for any number of differences found between the zero position and the newly determined position, as desired. In some instances, controller 56 uses rules, logic, and/or software to determine whether calibration or recalibration is required. For example, if a first sensor reading determines that container 18 is substantially empty, and after a short period of time, a second sensor reading determines that container 18 is substantially full, such logic could be used to indicate that, based on the items that have been shredded, amount, container 18 is likely to be underfilled and a false reading has been formed. The intensity of the sensor can then be recalibrated to the last zero position, or alternatively after operation of eg the shredding mechanism. Additional examples using logic, code, etc. are described in more detail below.

The intensity of a single device or LED is set at a baseline voltage. The baseline voltage comprises at least a value for determining a first or starting intensity of emitted and detected radiation. The baseline voltage of the sensor is set by the controller 56 at the zero position. The radiation emitted by the LEDs decreases in intensity over time. According to one embodiment, the controller 56 automatically calibrates the radiation intensity of the sensor by adjusting the baseline voltage to the second intensity.

When multiple LEDs are used as the actuation sensor 50 and/or the case full sensor 72, the LEDs may be calibrated in a manner similar to that mentioned above. For example, when multiple LEDs are provided as the bin full sensing device 72 on the shredder housing 12, logic may be used to determine false positive readings. After operation, if the reading determined by the first LED is 10% higher than that determined by the second LED, the controller 56 may use such logic to determine that a calibration is required, since such a difference is unlikely to occur in detecting accumulated chopped particles .

In addition to preventing false positive signals from the controller 56 being sent to the shredding mechanism 20, calibrating the LEDs can also increase sensor 50 and/or 72 lifespan. Additionally, calibrating the LEDs using the controller 56, for example, may be beneficial to distinguish between spurious errors or the need to recalibrate the sensor to a new zero position. As previously mentioned, if the controller 56 determines that the sensor signal is less than the previously noted zero position, the controller 56 recalibrates the sensor. However, in some instances, the controller 56 may ignore any shift in intensity as an error, such as when dust or chopped particles temporarily alter the radiation intensity. In some embodiments, the controller may determine the offset and adjust the intensity during operation or for a predetermined period of time before defaulting back to a previous zero position. Furthermore, the controller 56 may be configured to determine that the radiation intensity should be recalibrated after multiple adjustments.

More particularly, for example, the controller 56 and/or logic, code, software, computer readable media, etc., may be used to calibrate the sensors after the emptying process is detected. For example, a user may empty the bin 18 if the sensing device 72 determines that the bin is full of accumulated particles. Additional sensors and/or logic may determine, for example, one or more events indicative of a possible emptying process, including but not limited to: movement of container 18, movement of container 18 against or relative to the frame, opening of frame door, Separation of shredder housing 12 and bin 18, etc. Sensing device 72 may then be calibrated. If it is determined that the sensor reading is near or substantially near the previous zero position, the controller 56 assumes that the box or container 18 has been emptied and may set a threshold detection level substantially equal to the sensor reading. In some instances, logic may be used to zero the intensity or baseline voltage to the previous zero position if the sensor reading is not substantially equal to the threshold detection level of the previous zero position, but is within a predetermined amount (e.g., a 2% difference). the zero position. For example, it can be assumed that such slight differences are due to dust or small particles. Additionally or alternatively, a significantly large change in the first and second readings of the sensor may be determined to be indicative of an emptying process. Therefore, the second reading can be used to set a new zero position for the baseline voltage and intensity in order to determine the waste level of the tank 18 .

In some instances, controller 56 may determine that the detected intensity is inaccurate, and sensing device 72 must be calibrated based on previous sensor readings, intensity values stored in memory, or the like. For example, once the sensing device 72 is calibrated after the emptying process, it may be determined that the second sensor reading is above a predetermined amount, or alternatively, significantly different (eg, a 20% difference) from the first reading. Since the controller 56 has determined that the emptying process has occurred, the controller 56 may also determine an approximate result for the second sensor reading. That is, the approximate intensity of the reflected radiation after the container 18 has been emptied is generally known. When such a difference between the first and second readings is determined, the difference between the first and second readings can be measured to determine whether such second readings are accurate or, alternatively, due to dust and/or or other particles are wrong. If the reading is determined to be accurate, the sensing device 72 is calibrated to the value determined by the second reading. If the reading is determined to be incorrect, the sensing device 72 is calibrated to a previous or default baseline voltage/zero position.

In some embodiments, calibration may occur during the emptying process. For example, controller 56 may calibrate sensing device 72 if controller 56 is in communication with a sensor that detects separation of container 18 from shredder housing 12 (or some other similar action for emptying as noted above). It is beneficial to calibrate the sensing device 72 during this process because the intensity is set when there are little or no chopped particles in the container 18 . In particular, in an embodiment where the case or container 18 can be removed from the frame (e.g., slid from it like a drawer), the temperature for the sensing device 72 can be determined based on detecting radiation reflected within the empty frame. Baseline voltage or intensity setting. That is, when the container 18 is substantially removed from the frame, the baseline voltage of the sensing device 72 may be adjusted to determine a threshold detection level of intensity. Also, in some embodiments, after repositioning the container 18, if the reading differs from the reading obtained when the container 18 was substantially removed from the frame during the emptying process, the controller 56 can estimate or determine whether the reading is accurate , and if necessary, approximate the amount of dust and/or particles that may be present in the container 18.

Of course, sensing device 50 may be calibrated and/or recalibrated in such a similar manner.

Other advantages of using LEDs as sensing devices 50 or 72 include, for example, their ability to be calibrated to any desired zero point. In some examples, the threshold detection level of sensing device 50 or 72 may be set by a user or manufacturer. For example, if the user finds that the bin 18 becomes too full of shredded particles before issuing a warning or stopping the shredding process, the user can optionally manually override the default setting by setting or adjusting the threshold detection point of the sensor 72 And the actions of the controller 56.

It should be noted that the methods used to determine the sensed motion (eg, insertion of an item or accumulation of material) should not be limiting. For example, a controller and/or other hardware or software in shredder 10 may estimate the amount of material being shredded. As shown in FIG. 3 , one or more sensors 72 may be disposed in or near the output opening 16 to detect shredded particles as they accumulate from the shredding mechanism 20 . For example, a timer may be used to make such an estimate based on the time between detecting chopped particles. Logic and/or other operations for estimating the amount of material in bin 18 may also be used.

Additionally, contacts or mechanical components (not shown) extending into the feed opening 14 may be provided that are actuated in response to at least one item being inserted into the feed opening 14 . In one embodiment, contacts or mechanical components (not shown) may be provided to assist in actuating the operation of the shredder mechanism 20 . Alternatively, contact means (not shown) may be provided to assist in identifying or indicating the thickness of the stack of items.

While the principles of the invention have been made clear in the illustrative examples given above, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the structures, arrangements, proportions, elements, materials and , and components for various modifications.

The type of shredder 10 to which the capture device is applied should not be limiting. For example, the capture device may be applied to a shredder comprising a lift-off shredder housing. Furthermore, the shredder 10 may include various configurations of the shredding mechanism 20 and the cutter element 21 . The mechanism described above can be implemented in all cross cut machines or strip cutting machines.

Additionally, one or more sensors 50 and/or 72 may be used to cooperate with one or more other sensor devices in shredder 10 . Such a sensor device may be a device capable of, but not limited to: determining a maximum thickness (e.g., indicating that at least one item inserted into the feed opening 14 has a thickness at least equal to a predetermined thickness), detecting movement of the container 18, Detecting shredded material in or around the output opening 16, detecting whether power to the shredder 10 or the shredding mechanism 20 is on or off, and/or detecting and indicating that the output opening 16 is restricted or closed. Furthermore, the sensor device may be used to cooperate with any number of mechanical, electromechanical, or electrical devices. For example, with sensors for detecting container movement, if the waste container or bin 18 is removed from the shredder housing 12, the shredder mechanism 20 will not operate.

Additionally, it is contemplated that the calibration method described herein may be used with any type of LED sensor provided on the shredder. Also, an automatic calibration may be performed for any, some, or all of the LED sensors provided on the shredder.

In some embodiments, any number of visible or audible signals in the form of, for example, lights or alarms may be used to cooperate with the sensors and shredder. For example, it is conceivable that such a signal could be used in situations such as indicating that a box is full. Any suitable indicator can be used.

Accordingly, it will be seen that the objects of the present invention have been fully and effectively accomplished. It will be appreciated, however, that the foregoing preferred specific embodiments are shown and described for purposes of illustrating the functional and structural principles of the invention and that changes may be made without departing from these principles. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications encompassed within the spirit and scope of the following claims.

Claims (21)

1. shredding machine comprises:

Shredding machine housing with charging aperture, described charging aperture are used to admit at least one article to be shredded by this charging aperture;

Be contained in the shredder mechanism in the described housing, described shredder mechanism comprises motor and cutter elements, described shredder mechanism can be admitted in the described cutter elements described at least one article to be shredded, and described motor can be operated and be used for driving described cutter elements on the chopping direction, and described at least one article that make described cutter elements will be admitted to wherein are chopped into the chopping particle;

Can be used as at least one light emitting diode of sensor operation, described at least one photodiode sensor is configured to be used as transmitter when operation on the forward bias direction, and is configured to when operation on the reverse bias direction as detector;

Be couple to the controller of described sensor and described shredder mechanism, described controller is configured to replace between described forward bias direction and described reverse bias direction in the input that makes described light emitting diode, and

Described controller can be operated the operation that is used for controlling based on the radiation that described sensor detects described shredder mechanism.

2. shredding machine according to claim 1, described sensor is selected from one of group that comprises following: (a) charging aperture sensor, can operate and be used for the radiation variation that detects based on described sensor, survey the insertion of described at least one article in the described charging aperture; (b) level of waste sensor can be operated and is used for the radiation variation that detects based on described sensor, surveys the accumulation of the chopping particle of described shredder mechanism discharging.

3. shredding machine according to claim 2, wherein said shredding machine comprise charging aperture sensor and level of waste sensor, and described controller is couple to described sensor.

4. shredding machine according to claim 1, wherein said shredding machine housing has diapire, has outlet opening on the described diapire, and described light emitting diode is installed to described diapire.

5. shredding machine according to claim 1, wherein said light emitting diode radiation emitted are selected from and comprise following group: the light in visible spectrum, infra-red radiation and ultra-violet radiation.

6. shredding machine according to claim 1, wherein said motor rotates described cutter elements with false relation, so that chopping is admitted to wherein article by feed opening.

7. shredding machine according to claim 1 also comprises the container that is used to admit described at least one chopping article or chopping particle.

8. shredding machine according to claim 7, wherein said at least one light emitting diode are arranged on the described container or are adjacent with described container.

9. shredding machine according to claim 2, wherein said controller is configured to carry out the automatic calibration of described at least one light emitting diode, wherein when not having article or chopping particle to exist when changing the radiation that described sensor detects, the intensity of described at least one light emitting diode radiation emitted is adjusted at the scheduled volume on the minimum threshold detection level or within this scheduled volume.

10. shredding machine according to claim 9 is wherein carried out described calibration after the operation of described shredder mechanism.

11. shredding machine according to claim 1 is wherein determined the radiation that described sensor detects based on the capacitance variations that described at least one light emitting diode detects.

12. shredding machine according to claim 1, wherein, a plurality of light emitting diodes are provided and can be used as described sensor operation, and described a plurality of light emitting diode is installed on the described housing by array.

13. shredding machine according to claim 1, the described radiation of wherein said light emitting diode emission is in visible spectrum, and described sensor is to operate the charging aperture sensor that is used for surveying based on the radiation variation that described sensor detects the insertion of described at least one article, wherein said sensor is installed in described charging aperture place, so its at least a portion is visible in described shredding machine outside, thereby, the input of described light emitting diode alternately make described light emitting diode on the forward bias direction as user's indicator, simultaneously on the reverse bias direction as detector based on the insertion of described at least one article of change detection of surround lighting radiation.

14. a shredding machine comprises:

Shredding machine housing with charging aperture, described charging aperture are used to admit at least one article to be shredded by this charging aperture;

Be contained in the shredder mechanism in the described housing, described shredder mechanism comprises motor and cutter elements, described shredder mechanism can be admitted in the described cutter elements described at least one article to be shredded, and described motor can be operated and be used for driving described cutter elements on the chopping direction, and described at least one article that make described cutter elements will be admitted to wherein are chopped into particle;

Be used to admit the container of chopping particle;

A series of light emitting diodes are positioned to receive the described chopping particle radiation reflected from be deposited in described container and determine the intensity of institute's radiation reflected, and described intensity is corresponding to the amount that is deposited in the chopping particle in the described container;

Described a series of light emitting diode is configured to be used as transmitter when operation on the forward bias direction, and is configured to when operation on the reverse bias direction as detector;

Be couple to the controller of described a series of light emitting diode and described shredder mechanism, described controller is configured to make the input of described a series of light emitting diodes to replace between described forward bias direction and described reverse bias direction, and

Described controller can be operated the operation that is used for controlling based on the detection of described sensor described shredder mechanism.

15. shredding machine according to claim 14, wherein said controller is configured to, when satisfying the condition of described shredding machine, the intensity of the radiation that described light emitting diode is received be adjusted to minimum threshold detection level place or on scheduled volume or this scheduled volume within.

16. shredding machine according to claim 15, wherein said condition is limited with respect to moving of described shredding machine housing by described container.

17. shredding machine according to claim 14, wherein said shredding machine housing has diapire, and described a series of light emitting diode is installed to described diapire to survey the chopping particle in the described container.

18. shredding machine according to claim 15 is wherein carried out the described adjusting of described intensity after the operation of described shredder mechanism.

19. shredding machine according to claim 14, wherein the capacitance variations that detects based on described a series of light emitting diodes is determined the described intensity of described radiation.

20. shredding machine according to claim 14, wherein said a series of light emitting diodes are installed to described housing by array.

21. a method of carrying out in shredding machine, described shredding machine comprises: have the shredding machine housing of charging aperture, described charging aperture is used to admit at least one article to be shredded by this charging aperture; Be contained in the shredder mechanism in the described housing, described shredder mechanism comprises motor and cutter elements, described shredder mechanism can be admitted in the described cutter elements described at least one article to be shredded, and described motor can be operated and be used for driving described cutter elements on the chopping direction, and described at least one article that make described cutter elements will be admitted to wherein are chopped into the chopping particle; Can be used as at least one light emitting diode of sensor operation, described at least one photodiode sensor is configured to be used as transmitter when operation on the forward bias direction, and is configured to when operation on the reverse bias direction as detector; Be couple to the controller of described sensor and described shredder mechanism, described controller is configured to make the input of described light emitting diode to replace between described forward bias direction and described reverse bias direction, and described controller can be operated the operation that is used for controlling based on the radiation that described sensor detects described shredder mechanism, and described method comprises:

The described input of described light emitting diode is replaced between described forward bias direction and described reverse bias direction;

Utilize described light emitting diode probe radiation; And

Utilize described controller, the operation of described shredder mechanism is controlled in the radiation that detects based on described light emitting diode.

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